HEAT SUPPRESSION
One of the first projects awarded to RigDeluge® was on the EON Babbage Platform
for their phase 2 operations.
The operator asked RigDeluge® to review the problems encountered and lessons learnt on phase 1 and to implement
engineered solutions.
All problems encountered in heat suppression activities were either mitigated or had the risks reduced significantly on
phase 2.
Five of the primary problems encountered were related to the rig cooling system positioned on the flare boom:
1. It blocked the walk way
2. The nozzle blocked and the Well Tests were disrupted
3. The crane was required to install the system
4. On the West Side of the platform the flare boom had to be swung into the side of the platform, for
the cooling system to be installed and maintained when the nozzle blocked.
5. There was no independent verification on design of system or fire suppression nozzle
As shown below, a piece of equipment was introduced which added to the hazards and risks associated with
the activities on the flare boom. Inevitably, it would be the Well Test Company and Duty Holder that would be held
accountable if there was an incident or accident while using this type of flare boom cooling system.
This is the same type of rig cooling system as used on the Babbage Phase 1 project, and you can see how dangerous
it is to personnel and the operation in general. With a blocked walk way while working over water and at height,
Well Test Operators and Rig Cooling Operators frequent the flare boom during rigging up, service and maintenance,
pressure testing and rigging down.
North Sea today - current industry standard cooling systems blocking flare boom walk way
HSE INTERNATIONAL
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